Jayne Dowle
Latest articles by Jayne Dowle

5 things that make an extension look cheap – design experts reveal the common culprits that could lower the value of your project
By Jayne Dowle published
These are the design choices that could be cheapening your extension project

5 things that will make your house renovation look cheap – plus what to do instead, according to renovation experts
By Jayne Dowle published
If you’re renovating, here’s how to avoid the things that make the finished job look low budget

Is your neighbour's tree blocking sunlight? Here's what you can and can't do when it comes to trimming trees that aren't your own
By Jayne Dowle published
Tackling your neighbour over a troublesome tree casting shade over your home or garden needn’t be daunting or lead to a dispute if you follow our expert advice

How to buy garden land from a neighbour to build your own house
By Jayne Dowle published
A neighbour selling off their garden can be the ideal solution for a self build plot, but it will come with caveats

If you buy a plot with planning permission, can you build something else?
By Jayne Dowle published
Buying a plot with planning permission already agreed can be a plus, but if you want to change things, it’s important to know the pitfalls

Buying a house with asbestos? What you need to know
By Jayne Dowle published
If you’re buying a house where asbestos is found or suspected, there can be room for price negotiation, but you need to have the facts at hand

8 things to check when buying a house with a septic tank
By Jayne Dowle published
If you’re buying a rural property it might come with a septic tank, and you’re going to need to check it’s in good working order and compliant with the law

Thinking about buying a house near a pylon? What you need to know
By Jayne Dowle published
If you have seen the house of your dreams but there's an electricity pylon near-by, we asked the experts their advice on how to proceed

Wondering how much to offer on a house to seal the deal? Here's the key steps to a successful negotiation
By Jayne Dowle published
You’ve found the perfect house, but now comes the next challenge, how to put together an offer that can’t be refused
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